LOUISE WILLIAMSON - 23/5/62 - 9/9/23
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Following a short illness we lost our friend Louise on the 9th September, a huge loss and Louise’s funeral will be on 5th October (details will be shared on social media) we will miss this very special lady
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In a bid not to forget the great people who have shaped our charity we had created OUR LEGENDS section on the website. To visit CLICK HERE
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Women in Moto (WIM) Exhibition by Rob Scott
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In August, the third annual Women in Moto (WIM) Exhibition was run at Uttoxeter Racecourse, (having outgrown its previous venue at Tutsbury Castle). Whilst established to celebrate women in the motorcycling world, the event equally welcomes non-riders, and those of all gender identity or expression.
I volunteered to assist on the MHMB stand, where I was reacquainted with some helpers that I had previously worked with, and was introduced to others from the MHMB community that I had not met in person before. As I had experienced at previous events, we were all soon running as a collaborative and friendly team. It was literally all-hands-on-deck on Saturday with the remnants of Storm Betty making it a particularly windy day. Collectively we managed to just about keep the gazebo in contact with the ground, and remained in possession of all merchandise and ‘flyers’. At the same time, there was a steady stream of people wanting to speak with us, both for support, and to learn more about MHMB.
The weather was more subdued on Sunday. As was the number of visitors, probably something to do with The Lionesses playing in the Women’s Football World Cup final! Nevertheless, plenty of meaningful connections were made, and we continued to spread the word, and promote mental wellbeing within the biker community. The event attracted more than 1,500 visitors over the weekend, and encompassed a display arena, various exhibitors, retailers, guest speakers and panels, screenings, workshops, even yoga classes, music in the evenings, and ample food and beverages of all sorts.
A highlight for me was a small exhibition, by Patricia Morrow-Webb, of photographs of female riders both on and off their motorbikes, (for example in a house or garden). The contrast in their dress, surroundings, and especially their posture, made you think about the cliched assumptions that are all too easily made.
Many of us also availed ourselves of the camping area within the grounds, to pitch up and relax after an inspiring and eventful day. Everyone in attendance was full of enthusiasm, yet simultaneously I found the atmosphere very friendly and laid back. Whilst I can be quite nervous and reserved, WIM offered a safe and supportive space for all to enjoy, and I had interesting chats and laughs with friends and strangers alike.
I also have to mention Louise (Williamson), a cornerstone of MHMB, whom we sadly lost recently. Louise was especially fond of the WIM event, and was instrumental in arranging our attendance this year. Karen (Cole) and I visited Louise in hospital on our way to Uttoxeter, and we promised Louise that we would do our very best to bring her well laid plans to fruition. As a team, we sent Louise many messages and photographs over the course of the weekend, to keep her present with us as much as possible. RIP Louise, this short but heartfelt article is dedicated to you.
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A farewell to Overland (we’ll meet again?) by Martin Smith
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Vans and motorcycles are fully loaded. It's an early start and the overnight dew is still on the ground. This could be the start of any event that Mental Health Motorbike has attended, but it's not. This is The Overland Event.
Overland has long been regarded as the spiritual home of Mental Health Motorbike. There is good reason for this. There are several events that are key to the development and formation of the charity. Overland is one of those. During the turbulent times of COVID-19 and in the first year of its formation, Mental Health Motorbike attended the only event that remained on the calendar, The Overland Event 2020.
It is a testament to the efforts of the Overland team that the event could go ahead. Nestled under a borrowed camping gazebo, a fresh-faced team of volunteers stood behind the now familiar R1200GSA with its panniers now freshly adorned with vinyl announcing the presence of Mental Health Motorbike.
Such was the impression left with the event organisers that the following year Mental Health Motorbike was selected as the nominated good cause for 2021. Throughout 2022 and 2023 The Overland Event has welcomed the team back with supportive arms and at this stage, many of the Overland team are active volunteers of the charity. It is perhaps because of this that the event feels more like a family gathering. A chance to relax among friends and fellow travellers.
This year was slightly bittersweet. While we all enjoyed the presenters on stage, the crowds mingling and the performers entertaining, it was announced that there was to be no Overland Event 2024. The event founder had decided to take a break to travel with his family. This is a huge loss to both Mental Health Motorbike and to us as individuals who not only attend the event but look forward to reconnecting with others who attend. We thank The Overland Event, and all involved for everything they have achieved and hope to see them again in the future.
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THEN...
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NOW...!
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BMF Lucky Cup Rally by Weeble
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A fantastic weekend in an absolutely wonderful setting. The British Motorcycle Federation (BMF) had invited us to participate at this rally and we were more than happy to do so.
The weather was amazing and the atmosphere was extremely chilled out and relaxed. We had some meaningful conversations with people who wanted to help in the future or actually needed help from us.
We are very grateful to the BMF for the opportunity to attend and we hope that this is only the beginning of bigger and better things between the two organisations.
On a personal note, I might, or might not, use something a little larger than a Monkey Bike to travel the 145 mileseach way next year.
It was fun though (Weeble)
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Brew n Sprocket Launch Event
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Things are gathering momentum in the North West. Here in Presall at The Brew 'n' Sprocket cafe. Gary and Bonnie have a fantastic place and they are striving to deliver more than a meeting point, this is a cafe to support the biking community on many levels including mental health support. There are currently four Mental Health Motorbike qualified MHFA's in regular attendance at their bike meets which run on a Wednesday evening and Sundays. We hope to create a series of wellbeing hubs across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and having a place like this is a great starting point.
A warm welcome is guaranteed at the Brew 'n' Sprocket cafe. Myself and other team members are thoroughly enjoying the lovely coffee and cakes, the enormous portions of chef prepared meals, from salads to burgers, the specials board ... and did I mention cake?
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Ace Cafe reunion - The Brighton Burn Up by Alex Chalmers
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A couple of weekends ago, our team had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Ace Cafe reunion run, known as the Brighton Burn Up. We were overwhelmed by the warm welcome we received from the Ace Cafe team.
The day began early with a delicious breakfast at Ace Cafe and chatting to a few people about Mental Health Motorbike, setting the perfect tone for what lay ahead. After filling our stomachs, we embarked on a ride down to Brighton, where we joined forces with more members of the MHMotorbike team who were awaiting our arrival. The turnout for the event was nothing short of astounding, with what seemed like thousands of enthusiastic participants. Fortunately, Mother Nature smiled upon us and the sun was shining.
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Mark and the entire Ace Cafe team for their hospitality and support. We also extend our thanks to our team of volunteers who generously contributed their time and effort on the day. Special thanks goes to Tony, one of our Regional Coordinators, who went well out of his way to ensure that the Brighton leg of the event ran smoothly in the morning.
Together, we made this event a memorable and successful day, strengthening our bonds and commitment to our cause. Thank you all for your incredible efforts and participation.
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Applications are now open for #GETOUTDOSTUFF adventure travel grants! Thanks to the amazing fundraising efforts of the Armchair Adventure Festival community and the support of the Change Your World Fund there is more than £5,000 up for grabs in #GETOUTDOSTUFF grants!
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To see our current team click on the map below
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Why not sign up to do a future MHFA course and be part of this life saving community...?
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